Kids can now be away from their moms for longer

Due to an increased demand in the Whistler community the Alta Lake School has created a new full-day kindergarten program.

"In this day and age there is such a demand for full-day programs for kindergartners," said Peggy Vogler, president of the Waldorf-based Alta Lake School Society.

"Working families need the support," she said.

The focus of the Waldorf kindergarten is on learning through creative play in a home-like setting.

The peaceful nature of the Waldorf kindergarten is designed to offer children a break from fast-paced society and allow them to discover their own abilities and characters, establishing the groundwork for a lifetime of learning.

"A Waldorf kindergarten is very structured and rhythmical. Children find the format very comforting and easy to follow because the teacher works at creating patterns in the day and week. In other words, the children find comfort in knowing what comes next," said Vogler.

"This also helps in teaching children self-discipline, a skill they use for the rest of their lives," she said.

The new kindergarten will be open Monday to Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday is a half day, in keeping with the rest of the school.

"Some parents and children are very happy with the half-day format and we wanted to keep that for them," said Vogler.

There is also the possibility of after school care from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. if the need is there. The school is also looking into a full-day pre-school.

"We just have to finalize licensing requirements and staffing," said Vogler.

Anyone who is interested in the Alta Lake School programs can call the school directly at 604-932-1885 or attend the open house on Wednesday, Aug. 20 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.